The Golden Sayings of Epictetus CLXXXIII

CLXXXIII

Favorinus(20) tells us how Epictetus would also say that there were two faults far graver and fouler than any others—inability to bear, and inability to forbear, when we neither patiently bear the blows that must be borne, nor abstain from the things and the pleasures we ought to abstain from. “So,” he went on, “if a man will only have these two words at heart, and heed them carefully by ruling and watching over himself, he will for the most part fall into no sin, and his life will be tranquil and serene.” He meant the words Avexou kai apexou—"Bear and Forbear.”

(20) A Roman orator and sophist.